08.22.17

Sullivan Statement on Afghanistan Strategy

ANCHORAGE, AK – U.S. Senator Dan Sullivan, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, released the following statement today following President Trump’s speech on America’s strategy in Afghanistan and South Asia:

“I commend President Trump for his strong speech last night outlining a revised strategy for Afghanistan. I am encouraged that the President –  following recommendations from Secretary Mattis and others – outlined clear principles to govern our continued presence there. Ensuring that Afghanistan does not again become a safe haven for global radical Islamic terrorist operations remains a fundamental U.S. national security interest. It is particularly significant that the President indicated U.S. involvement going forward would be based on strategic considerations rather than arbitrary timelines, and that he emphasized increasing pressure on Pakistan to eliminate terror safe havens as well as working with our allies and partners in the region. 

“In this regard, I was pleased to see the President publicly recognize the strategic importance of India’s economic and development assistance in Afghanistan, something that I have consistently worked to promote. As a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee, I look forward to hearing more details from the Department of Defense on the implementation of this strategy in the near future.” 

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